The Connections Bernards Ridge Edition April/May 2021

theconnectionsnj.com HOME & DESIGN PAGE 54 908.766.2006 www.trueleafkitchens.com 134 S. Finley Ave., Basking Ridge truly transform the way you live (908) 751-0854 So, you nally decided that it’s time to pull the trigger on your kitchen remodel and you want it done in time for a Labor Day party ( ngers crossed)! That seems so far away, but because of extended lead times for cabine- try and appliances due to COVID-19, and not enough contractors to handle the huge surge i n remodeling/construction that is happening, this deadline might be dif cult to hit. A better approach to your remodel would be to start designing now and not be so worried about hitting a speci c holiday or event, instead fo- cus on taking the time to make your kitchen something special that you will enjoy for many years to come. Our most satis ed clients are those that did not focus on doing their kitchen to meet a crazy deadline, but doing it right. So you may be wondering how long does it usually take and what is involved? Design Phase (6-16 weeks) – The ab- solute minimum you should plan to nalize your design with a designer is 6 weeks, al- though our average is about 3 months. The amount of time it takes to nail down all the details is really up to you. Cabinetry and Appliance Lead time (6- 12 weeks) – Lead times have been impact- ed greatly by COVID-19 so you will need to order earlier than normal to get your cabin- etry and appliances. Installing Cabinets and Finishing Kitch- en (6-8 weeks) – You will likely have a work- ing kitchen in 2-4 weeks after demolition, but the remaining items like installing crown/base molding on cabinets, installing backsplash, put- ting nal coat on oors, nish installing electric, nal inspections and any other construction work needed will take an additional 4 weeks. Punch List phase (4 weeks) – A punch list happens towards the end of the con- struction. It is when clients make a list identifying any remaining items like warped doors, scratches, drawers that need adjust- ing, etc. This usually requires waiting for re- placement parts to be made and installed, which can take a few weeks. Based on this timeline, most kitchens will take about 6-9 months from the time you rst visit your designer to that last drawer being adjusted. This is really a small time investment for many years of enjoyment. Why just design and build an ordinary kitch- en when you can take the time to have fun and create an amazing space to show off at next year’s Labor Day party! So, if you are ready to start the process now you can set up an appointment to- day with one of the experienced and cre- ative designers at TrueLeaf Kitchens. Their showroom is located at 134 S. Finley Ave. in downtown Basking Ridge. Call them at 908-766-2006 or visit their photo gallery for ideas at www.trueleafkitchens.com. NEW KITCHEN TIMELINE IN 2021 Our most satis ed clients are those that did not focus on doing their kitchen to meet a crazy deadline, but doing it right. So you may be wondering how long does it usually take and what is involved?